The
majority of South Africans are still victims of the devastating effects of
poverty. This deprives them of hope and relegates them to a state of despair. It
destroys their capacity to achieve. Government must be committed to change these
painful living conditions that affects so many South Africans.

Against this reality the UDM welcomes the investigation and research of possible
basic income grant as foreseen by Cabinet. Thorough research indicating the
economic, financial and, most importantly, social impact of such a grant is
needed before an informed decision is made. The capacity of the Department of
Welfare, in its current form and state, to deal with such a grant is
questionable.

Though every effort to lighten the plight of the poor needs to be welcomed and
encouraged, the answer does no simply lie in making South Africa a Welfare
State.

The burning issue remains the creation of income opportunities for all families.
Enterprise development that will empower South Africans to generate income is
where the focus should be. Unless opportunities are
created for South Africans on a massive scale, real empowerment will never
occur.

Government should integrate its approach and look at a well-developed programme
of action where one job per family can be created as a starting point. This is a
sustainable approach that will not only address poverty in an artificial manner,
but will give back to South Africans their dignity and self-belief.